The Best Nursing Clothes And Tops To Keep Breastfeeding Moms And Baby Comfy - Forbes

The best nursing clothes make it as easy as possible to feed your little one when the need strikes. Breastfeeding often feels like a full-time job, which is why it only makes sense to get the gear you need to support you on your journey. You'll want comfortable nursing bras, the right breast pump and nursing tops, maybe a few dresses and pajamas to get you through.

When you're breastfeeding, "you need easy access to your breasts," says Leigh Anne O'Connor, a lactation consultant and La Leche League leader. Babies "nurse frequently," she points out. "And often when they need to nurse, they give you short notice." If you're wearing a top that can't easily be undone, you could end up dealing with a fussy baby while you try to quickly undress—if you're even able to do so in that particular moment. The best nursing clothes also make it easier to pump as the need strikes without fully undressing.

But nursing tops and other clothing should offer more than just speedy access. "Nursing clothes should make a mother feel good, especially in her new postpartum body," says Lauren Davidheiser, a registered dietitian and lactation consultant at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Like non-nursing clothing, everyone's style and tastes vary. Yet, there are some options that rise above the rest in terms of fabric, fit and function. These are the best nursing clothes to shop right now. After perusing this list, you might also want to read about some more of our must-have baby feeding essentials, including the best bottles, bottle warmers, sterilizers and high chairs.

• H&M Mama Nursing Tops
• A Pea In The Pod Long-Sleeve Pull-Over Nursing Tee
• Bodily Always-On Nursing Tank
• Cosabella Bella Nursing Pajama Set With Robe
• Old Navy Maternity First Layer Nursing Cami Top
• Kindred Bravely 2-In-1 Nursing And Maternity Knit Midi Dress
• Storq Nursing Cardigan
• Motherhood Maternity French Terry Side Access Nursing Hoodie
• Ingrid + Isabel EveryWear Maternity And Nursing Jumpsuit
• Madewell Moloco Jojo Nursing Bikini Top
• Hatch Back In The Game Nursing Dress

Best Nursing Clothes

An Affordable T-Shirt With a Pull-Down Wrap Front

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This Soft, Long-Sleeve Nursing Top Is Extra Flattering

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This Nursing Tank Was Designed With A Lactation Consultant

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A Pajama Set You'll Want To Live In

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An Essential Nursing Basic At The Right Price

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This Dress Is Made For Pregnancy And The Postpartum Period

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A Draped Cardigan With A Special Feature To Keep Baby Cozy

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A Hooded Sweatshirt With Hidden Side-Zip Panels

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A Lightweight Maternity Jumpsuit With Nursing Access

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This Deeply Discounted Breezy Nursing Dress

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A Bikini With A Hidden Nursing Panel For Your Upcoming Getaway

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How We Chose The Best Nursing Clothes

To choose the best nursing clothes, we spoke to lactation consultants and real moms about the best features to look for in these pieces of clothing. We also looked at the most popular products on the market and narrowed down the field by consumer reviews, fit, comfort and ease of use. Naturally, budget was taken into account, too. At Forbes, we regularly cover clothing and fashion, of course, but also postpartum and maternity clothing and other parenting subjects, including the best bassinets, diaper bags and baby monitors.

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What Clothes Are Best For Breastfeeding?

In general, you want clothes that are breathable and supportive, but not too constricting, Davidheiser says. "Look for convertible tops that have discreet flaps or detachable straps, ideally with one-handed clasps for the most convenient access," she says. "Search for softer fabrics that feel comfortable for newly sensitive areas and for baby's skin."

Leaking can happen, Davidheiser points out, and dark-colored clothes might help to hide stains. Overall, "ease of use is important," O'Connor says.

Are Wrap Dresses Good For Nursing?

They can be, O'Connor says. "Many people find wrap dresses convenient for nursing," she says. Wrap dresses also "provide flexibility in sizing and are one of the best dress options for easy access to nurse a hungry baby," Davidheiser says.

Besides, a smart wrap dress might just make you feel good. "Wrap dresses can make new mothers feel put-together while still providing a good amount of fabric coverage for extra privacy while nursing," adds Davidheiser.

What Should I Wear For Winter While Breastfeeding?

"Layers are helpful," O'Connor says. She suggests wearing a tank top under a cardigan or flannel. Davidheiser agrees. "Drapey flowy sweaters or cardigans are easy to take on and off as needed and provide adequate coverage for a breastfeeding mother in public," she says.

What Should I Wear At Night While Breastfeeding?

It's ultimately a personal preference, Davidheiser says. However, she adds, "Some mothers find that less is more when it comes to nursing at night." That can mean wearing nightgowns or larger sleep shirts that are easily accessible for late-night feeds. Button-down sleep shirts can also be useful.

How Many Nursing Tops Do I Need?

Experts say that three or four nursing tops are ideal. "You need a back-up for when baby spits up on you or when you leak through," O'Connor says. Having a few tops handy "will cut down on the amount of laundry you do, which is so helpful in those newborn days," Davidheiser says.